Learning disability nursing and people with profound learning disabilities and complex needs

INTRODUCTION People with profound learning disabilities and complex needs are one of the most marginalised and potentially vulnerable groups of people in any society. They are at continuing risk of social exclusion, and simultaneously experience poorer health than does the rest of the population (Mansell, 2010). Therefore, arguably, the role of the learning disability nurse in supporting, and where necessary providing, direct care for this group of people is particularly relevant because of the high levels of dependence they may have on others throughout their lives. Nursing, or directed social care, should be regarded as a way of systematically planning and documenting interventions to meet the needs of and to support this group of people in all aspects of their lives. This chapter will examine the learning disability nurse’s direct and indirect role in supporting or caring for this group of people. As in previous chapters, this will be contextualised within the Nursing and Midwifery Council for the United Kingdom (2010) and An Bord Altranais (2005) standards for competence.